At LEO Academy Trust, we believe that education has no borders. This week, we were honoured to host Benjamin Yong, Principal of Bedok Green Primary School in Singapore, as part of our expanding international partnership work.

The visit offered a unique opportunity for cross-cultural exchange, allowing us to showcase our schools while gaining first-hand insights from one of the world’s leading education systems.

A Journey Across Our Schools

During his time with us, Ben visited a diverse range of our academies, including Manor Park Primary, West Ashtead Primary, Cheam Common Junior Academy, Hurst Park Primary and Shawley Community Primary.

His itinerary was designed to provide a comprehensive look at the LEO approach to education. Key highlights included:

• EYFS Excellence: Exploring our Early Years provision and how we spark curiosity from the very beginning.

• Inclusion & SEND: Deep-dive discussions on our commitment to ensuring every child, regardless of their starting point, has the support to thrive.

• Digital Innovation: Demonstrating how we integrate technology seamlessly into the curriculum to enhance teaching and learning.

• Pedagogical Deep Dives: Observing classroom practice and discussing the "how" and "why" behind our teaching methods.

Ben was particularly struck by the strength of our inclusive classrooms and the confidence of our pupils. He spent quality time with Year 5 and 6 students, engaging in thoughtful discussions that challenged their thinking and broadened their global horizons.

Learning from the Best: The Singapore Perspective

The benefit of this partnership is truly reciprocal. Singapore is internationally recognised for its high academic standards, innovative curriculum design and rigorous commitment to professional learning. Our staff and pupils gained an immense amount from Ben’s insights. The chance to reflect on our own practices alongside an international colleague is invaluable—it pushes us to stay curious, challenge our assumptions, and continuously evolve as educators.

"The opportunity to exchange ideas and reflect on practice alongside international colleagues is invaluable in helping us provide the very best experiences for our children."

Rekindling Connections & Building Bridges

One of the most heartwarming moments of the week occurred at Hurst Park Primary. Several Year 6 pupils had the chance to reconnect with Mr Yong, whom they first met during our Turing Scheme visit to Singapore in February 2026. Seeing those global friendships flourish months later reinforces the impact of our international travel programmes.

Beyond the classroom, the visit fostered professional community. Two evening events provided a space for LEO colleagues to engage in rich dialogue with Ben over dinner, strengthening the personal relationships that form the foundation of our partnership.

A Three-Way Global Dialogue: UK, Singapore, and Finland

In a truly modern twist on international collaboration, we held a virtual summit during the visit. Ben, our CEO Phillip Hedger, and Anna-Mari Jaatinen (Principal of Siltamäki Primary School in Helsinki) connected via Google Meet.

This conversation brought together three of the world’s most respected education systems—the UK, Singapore, and Finland. Despite the geographical distances, the discussion highlighted a powerful set of shared values: a focus on excellence, a passion for innovation, and a dedication to child-centred learning.

Looking Ahead to 2026/27

As Ben concludes part of his London sabbatical with us, we want to extend our deepest thanks for his time, his wisdom, and his friendship.

The future of this three-way international partnership looks incredibly bright. We are already looking forward to:

• Continued collaboration throughout the 2026/27 academic year.

• Professional learning exchanges between staff across all three nations.

• Our next visit to Singapore in February 2027, where more of our pupils and staff will have the chance to experience the "Lion City" first-hand.

Thank you, Ben, for an inspiring week.